Abstract
In this paper, we present a directional bend sensor based on a long period grating (LPG) formed by introducing periodic grooves along one side of a photonic crystal fiber (PCF) with a focused CO2laser beam. A bend sensitivity of 2.26 nm/m-1within a range of -5 ∼ +5 m-1is experimentally demonstrated. Numerical simulation suggests that the directional response is the result of asymmetric cladding geometry resulted from collapse and/or deformation of air holes and asymmetric material-index modulation caused by one-sided illumination of the CO2laser beam. The sensitivity could be further enhanced by increasing the area of the air-silica photonic crystal cladding and optimizing the size of individual air holes. The easy fabrication process and good linear response of the proposed sensor make it a suitable candidate for structural shape sensing in harsh environments.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 4884-4891 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | Journal of Lightwave Technology |
Volume | 27 |
Issue number | 21 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Nov 2009 |
Keywords
- Directional bend sensing
- Long period grating (LPG)
- Optical fiber sensor
- Photonic crystal fiber (PCF)
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics